While the rumor mill is grinding about Toronto FC's potentially signing Jozy Altidore, the club also made a concrete move on Thursday, signing Michigan State University midfielder Jay Chapman as a Homegrown player.
In three years with the Spartans, Chapman appeared in 63 matches, starting in 62, while scoring 12 goals and added 15 assists.
"It’s always rewarding to sign players that were developed from within your Academy,” TFC General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko said in a statement. “Jay is a technical player and has shown an ability to be a driving force in the centre of midfield during his time at Michigan State. He fits into the direction we are heading in terms of our style of play and will be an important part of our club."
Chapman, 21, was named as a First Team All-American in 2014, the first MSU player to achieve that honor since 1970. He was also a 2014 MAC Hermann Trophy semifinalist, and was named Big Ten Midfielder of the Year
Before going to Michigan State, Chapman spent two years in the Toronto FC Academy. He was part of the Canadian under-17 team that finished second at the 2011 CONCACAF U-17 Championship. He then was a member of the Canadian squad at the 2011 U-17 FIFA World Cup.
